Nearly 43,000 people commented on the DEA reclassifying cannabis. What did they say?
July 30, 2024 by theguardian.com
Nearly 43,000 people commented on the DEA reclassifying cannabis. What did they say?
The US DEA closed the public comment period on cannabis rescheduling, receiving a record 43,000 submissions. Most favored full legalization over the DEA's proposed schedule change from I to III. Comments highlighted cannabis benefits, concerns about children's safety, and racist origins of criminalization. AI analysis showed 57% supporting descheduling, aligning with Pew research on cannabis legalization. The process's outcome is uncertain, with challenges like public hearings and legal hurdles. While progress is seen in rescheduling, concerns persist about federal criminalization's impact. Outlooks vary on potential delays, with hopes for a decision by year-end, while acknowledging the complexity and potential discontent among stakeholders.
